Everyone knows the feeling and occasionally suffers from a stiff neck. Neck pain is a common ailment, especially in times when we can hardly get away from all those big and small screens. How can you prevent a painful neck? Below we give you 4 tips!
1. ENOUGH EXERCISE
A stiff neck, scientifically called torticollis, is frequently caused by sitting in the same position for too long. If you sit at a desk or in a car a lot, you will suffer from it. But even if you spend hours looking on a tablet or smartphone, you can feel this on your neck muscles after a while.
The solution is simple: try to move your neck a bit more. Turn your head and arms around now and then, do some simple exercises ( even behind your desk) or walk around for a while. Small adjustments can make a big difference!
2. CORRECT POSTURE
Of course you also have to make sure that your screen and chair are in a good position, that you sit and walk upright. If you don't do that, you strain your neck and back muscles in the wrong way. You may not notice this right away, but in the long run you may have more serious back and neck problems.
What is a good sitting posture at your desk? Sit upright, keep your back straight and both feet on the ground so that your knees make a 90° angle. Your monitor should be at eye level with the top edge. It is also important to relax your shoulders. A lot of people tend to shrug their shoulders while working or making phone calls. This way you strain your neck muscles unnecessarily.
3. PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR SLEEPING POSITION
To prevent neck pain and to allow your neck muscles to relax completely at night, a correct sleeping position should not be underestimated. In pole position: a high quality pillow. A good pillow adapts to the shape of your head and neck. Your head should not be pushed upwards nor lowered too deeply into the pillow.
For abdominal and back sleepers it may be difficult to adjust, but sleeping on your side is really healthiest for your neck and the rest of your body.
4. KEEP YOUR NECK MUSCLES WARM
Of course you duffel yourself when it's cold, but don't forget your neck. A warm scarf makes sure your muscles don't freeze from the cold. Think about that in other seasons when there is a strong wind! If the harm is already done, a warm shower, cherry pit cushion or infrared light will relieve the pain. If you continue to experience pain, it is best to consult a doctor.
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